A SPECIAL flag has been raised above Redditch Town Hall in honour of Britain’s Armed Forces.
Mayor Pat Witherspoon led tributes to the work of the country’s servicemen and women during a short ceremony on Monday (June 23) outside the Town Hall attended by councillors, veterans and members of Redditch Scouts.
She said: “Today is a special day, a day all across the country in local authorities and other public sector buildings flags are being raised in honour of our servicemen and women that have protected our shores.
“These days they are placed in such far away places. They come back with such horror stories and we often tend to forget them on a day to day basis but on today of all days we will remember them, all of them.”
Rev Paul Lawlor, from St Stephen’s Church, then led the crowd in a prayer for members of the armed forces.
“We pray for all those who serve us in our armed forces, who take risks in their day to day work and put themselves in the way of danger for the sake of others.”
The flag was raised ahead of Armed Forces Day which takes place on Saturday (June 28) and aims to raise awareness of the contribution made to the country by the armed forces as well as give the nation the chance to show their appreciation for the work done not just by troops currently serving but their families, veterans and cadets.
This year’s event is extra special for Redditch as it will see members of the 37th Signal Regiment of the Royal Corps of Signals march through the town to mark the Freedom of the Borough they received in March.
Capt Martin Smith, from the unit, said: “We are members of the community, especially being a reserve regiment, we live and work amongst other members of the community in Redditch Borough and to get the support of local people means a huge amount.”
Barry Tansley, from the Redditch branch of The Parachute Regimental Association, salutes the flag as it is raised. Picture by Marcus Mingins 2614008MMR4
The flag flying high above the Town Hall. 2614008MMR1
Rev Paul Lawlor asked for prayers for those who put themselves in danger for the sake of others. 2614008MMR6
